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Science News Archive December 2015


Page 14 of 32

Decrease seen in newly registered NIH-funded trials

The number of NIH-funded trials decreased by 328, while industry-funded trials increased by 1,965, during the period. The total number of newly registered trials increased by 5,410, with industry-funded trials accounting for the majority of growth.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Not ordinary growing pains

A recent study at Rush University Medical Center found acupuncture to be a safe and effective adjunctive integrative medicine treatment for chronic pain in pediatric patients. The study included 55 children aged 7-20 who experienced chronic pain conditions, with significant reductions in pain levels and related health issues.

Quasar outburst revises understanding of universe, quasars

Astronomers measured the density of photon fog between Earth and quasar PKS 1441+25 using high-energy gamma rays. The data validated theoretical models for the number and brightness of stars and galaxies in the universe going back 7.6 billion years.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Distractibility trait predisposes some to attentional lapses

A study found that people with higher levels of ADHD symptoms also showed greater distractibility, which can impact daily activities and tasks. Increasing task difficulty can help improve focus and performance for both individuals with high and low distractibility traits.

University of Houston scientist named to National Academy of Inventors

Diana Shu-Lian Chow, a University of Houston professor, has been named a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors in recognition of her work on developing new drug formulations. Her work has led to significant improvements in the safety and efficacy of stem cell transplants for leukemia patients.

Enlisting distributed energy devices to balance the power grid

A new research project proposes employing millions of existing distributed energy resources to balance the power grid, increase reliability and decrease carbon emissions. The approach uses incentive-based coordination and control to make the grid more efficient and resilient.

New step toward determining the cause of MS

The study found that stromal cells, specialized fibers, and T helper 17 cells collaborate to form tertiary lymphoid tissues (TLTs) in the brain of MS patients. This discovery may lead to potential treatment options, such as targeted Th17 blockers, by understanding how TLTs are formed.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Pill that targets gut receptor treats fatty liver disease, obesity in mice

Researchers have found a compound that can prevent and reverse fatty liver disease and obesity in mice by targeting the farnesoid X receptor. The compound, Gly-MCA, was tested in obese and diabetic mice fed with a high-fat diet and showed significantly less fat and insulin resistance compared to untreated control groups.

NASA examines global impacts of the 2015 El Nino

The 2015 El Nino event is expected to bring more precipitation to California, with atmospheric rivers intensifying and potentially causing flooding. Meanwhile, the risk of wildfires in tropical regions increases due to reduced rainfall, which can exacerbate carbon dioxide buildup and air quality issues.

Novel imaging technique captures beauty of metal-labeled neurons in 3-D

A novel spectral confocal microscopy technique enables the visualization of silver- and gold-labeled neurons in three dimensions, providing high-resolution images that can be archived for decades. This method retains image quality even with repeated light exposure, making it ideal for studying neurological disorders and cancer.

Low cost, safe and accurate test could help diagnose rare childhood cancers

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a non-invasive blood test that can diagnose some types of malignant childhood tumour with high accuracy. The test looks for specific genetic code patterns in blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples, allowing for early diagnosis and monitoring without exposure to radiation.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

RateX: TUM team wins a Bell Labs Prize

The TUM team developed the RateX method, which overcomes two serious challenges in information theory by bringing together three essential functions. Their approach could enhance flexibility and reduce costs in various communication systems, including wireless, wireline, optical fiber, and satellite systems.

Brown, RIH win grants to teach addiction screening

The Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital have been awarded grants to integrate substance abuse screening and intervention into their curriculum. The training program aims to expand screening and intervention for opioid overdose deaths in Rhode Island, which has seen a rise in opioid-related deaths. The program will provide traini...

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

MSU leads the world's efforts to prevent food fraud

MSU has defined food fraud and established strategies to fight it, providing a system-wide focus for prevention. The university's Food Fraud Initiative aims to adjust entire food supply chains to detect and prevent food fraud.

Common signatures predict flu vaccine responses in young and elderly

A systems biology study of over 400 volunteers found that certain molecular signatures predict strong immune responses to seasonal flu vaccines in both young and elderly individuals. The researchers identified a distinct signature associated with long-lasting antibody responses, which may guide the development of more effective vaccines.

Greenhouse gas emissions from freshwater higher than thought

Researchers found that freshwater rivers and streams pump about 10 times more methane into the atmosphere than previously estimated, driven by human activity in agricultural and urban watersheds. This discovery highlights the importance of improving stream health in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

How recurrent strep A infections affect the brain

Recurrent Strep A infections may lead to autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders in children through a previously unknown route. Immune cells triggered by the infection travel along odor-sensing neurons to reach the brain, causing inflammation and promoting neuroinflammation.

Diversity in medical research is a long way off, study shows

A new analysis found that despite federal efforts to diversify clinical research, the number of studies including minorities remains low, and scientists from minority communities are less likely to receive funding. This lack of diversity poses a significant risk to understanding and addressing health disparities in the US population.

VERITAS detects gamma rays from galaxy halfway across the visible universe

The VERITAS telescope detected powerful gamma rays from a distant galaxy, PKS 1441+25, revealing details about the black hole engine at its center. The gamma-ray emission was found to be located within the relativistic jet, but surprisingly far from the black hole, and is estimated to be around 5 light-years away.

Sepsis: Cell therapy to repair muscle long-term impairment

Researchers discovered that sepsis causes severe muscle damage, impairing muscle function and leading to debilitating long-term effects. Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation has shown promising results in restoring muscle capacity and repairing mitochondrial dysfunction.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Ostracized children use imitation to fit in, study finds

Research suggests children as young as 5 use high-fidelity imitation to re-affiliate with excluded groups, mimicking behaviors such as dress and activities to appear part of the group. Ostracized children exhibit increased anxiety and frustration compared to those included by out-groups.

Why the flu vaccine is less effective in the elderly

Researchers identified molecular signatures that predict immune protection in response to flu vaccination, with elderly individuals showing high levels of monocytes and low antibody-producing B cells. This study provides insight into potential mechanisms underlying reduced vaccine efficacy in older adults.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

CEO compensation study examines factors in excess returns

UT Dallas researchers found that boards face two competing normative pressures: corporate elite norms and monitoring norms. Social capital affects how boards conform to those pressures. The study proposes introducing mechanisms for institutional investors to positively influence directors and creating full-time director positions.

Isolating water's impact on vibrations within DNA

At different hydration levels, researchers found that water contributes to subpicosecond structure fluctuations and broadens vibrational transitions in DNA. The study also reveals a pronounced coupling of backbone modes and an energy transfer between them.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: New Canadian guideline

A new Canadian guideline provides recommendations for diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure. The guideline recommends counseling women and their partners about abstinence during pregnancy, screening pregnant women for alcohol use, and conducting complet...

Humans evolved to get better sleep in less time

Researchers found that humans are exceptionally short sleepers, getting an average of seven hours of sleep per night, whereas other primates need up to 17 hours. Human sleep is also more efficient, spending less time in light stages and more in deeper stages.

Genes for age-related cognitive decline found in adult worm neurons

A team of researchers from Princeton University has discovered new genes that regulate memory and neuron repair in adult worms, which could have implications for human cognitive decline and traumatic brain injury. The study provides a more complete picture of how insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway controls gene expression in neurons.

New industrial possibilities for nanoporous thin films

Researchers at KU Leuven have developed an alternative production method to create nanoporous thin films, expanding their industrial possibilities. These materials can be used as catalysts, absorb large amounts of material, and store gases, opening up new applications in fields like nanoelectronics.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Research traces cause of organ dysfunction in Down syndrome

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have uncovered the molecular cause of peripheral nervous system dysfunction in Down syndrome. A gene called RCAN1 appears to be overactive, hindering nerve growth and development, which may contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and immune disorders associated with the condition.

Designer crystals for next-gen electronics

Researchers have developed a new process to grow designer crystals using vapour rather than liquid, enabling the creation of faster and more powerful electronic devices. The method uses metal organic frameworks (MOFs) with extremely large surface areas, allowing for the trapping of other molecules and boosting processing power.

Can technology help with the UK's rising health care costs?

Professor Ian Craddock discusses how IoT technologies can transform health care and reduce costs by managing chronic conditions outside the hospital environment. He will explore challenges, security concerns, and application scenarios for healthcare using his SPHERE project as an example.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Researchers create cellular 'ORACLs' to aid drug discovery

A team of researchers at UCSF developed ORACLs, a lineage of genetically modified cancer cells that change their appearance when treated with drugs, inspired by face-recognition software. These cells can quickly organize molecules in institutional compound libraries according to their biological function.

How multiple sclerosis can be triggered by brain cell death

Multiple sclerosis may be triggered by the death of brain cells that make the insulation around nerve fibers. Nanoparticles have been shown to prevent progressive MS in an animal model, offering new hope for human treatments without side effects.

Biochar suitable substrate for soilless hydroponic tomatoes

Researchers found biochar produced from tomato crop green waste can be used as a substrate for soilless hydroponic tomato production. The study showed that tomatoes grown in biochar-based substrates had similar growth, yield, and fruit quality to those in pine sawdust.

Chitchat and small talk could serve an evolutionary need to bond with others

Researchers found that ringtailed lemurs reserve vocal exchanges for individuals with whom they have close relationships, using them to maintain social bonds even when separated. This study highlights the importance of vocal interactions in establishing familiarity and closeness, a concept applicable to human communication as well.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

How nanoparticles give electrons away

Researchers at FAU and University of Barcelona discovered that platinum nanoparticles lose approximately every tenth electron when in contact with oxide support. This effect can be controlled using theoretical methods, allowing for more efficient catalytic processes and new electronic components.

Taking antidepressants during pregnancy increases risk of autism by 87 percent

A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics has found that taking antidepressants during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of autism in children. The study analyzed data from over 145,000 pregnancies and found an 87% increased risk of autism when antidepressants were used during the second or third trimester.

Extending the growing season for baby-leaf salad greens

Scientists evaluated nine spring and six fall crop cultivars for suitability as baby-leaf salad greens in the Pacific Northwest. Pak choi 'Joi Choi' and Mustard 'Komatsuna' showed high marketable weight, quick harvest time, and good weed competitiveness.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Missing water mystery solved in comprehensive survey of exoplanets

A team of astronomers has solved the long-standing mystery of missing water in hot Jupiter-sized exoplanets by analyzing atmospheric data from NASA's Hubble and Spitzer space telescopes. The study found that cloudy atmospheres are responsible for hiding water, ruling out dry hot Jupiters.

New NASA satellite maps show human fingerprint on global air quality

High-resolution satellite maps track air pollution trends over the last decade, revealing a human fingerprint on global air quality. Nitrogen dioxide levels have decreased significantly in the US and Western Europe due to environmental regulations, while China saw an increase in emissions.